Dealing with chinese whispers at work

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

56616

An unverified information originates from an unknown source and spreads like fire in the entire office. These talks can be related to shutting down of office or branch, merger and acquisition speculation, take overs etc.

Chinese whisper - a game where each player whispers a phrase or a word murmured by the preceding participant till the word reaches the originator. Interesting and secretive, right? Now, imagine a something similar in an office environment....rumours travelling from one to the other..interesting? Nope, scary as i would say.

An unverified information (rumour) originates from an unknown source and spreads like wild fire in the office. These talks can be related to shutting down of office or branch, merger and acquisition speculation, take overs, resignations or any aspect that directly or indirectly affect our office lives. They can even be masala news about link ups, break ups, marriage etc.

How can you remain unaffected by the rumours?

Stay away: Do not participate in unfruitful discussions in office. Be selective in giving your view point. Keep away from the identifiable sources of rumours.

Talk to the right person: When the situation becomes ambiguous, it is best to talk to the person who knows the exact scenario.

Do not pass it on: When the rumour reaches you, ensure you keep it to yourself and do not pass it on to other people.

Remain unaffected: Do not let rumours affect your performance and work style.

Don’t judge: It is best to remain unjudgmental and most importantly do not form or change your opinion based on a rumour.

Investigate: If the rumour is centered around you, try to find the origin of the rumour.

Be straightforward: When asked to give your opinion, assimilate your thoughts and be honest and direct.

Gossips can have a devastating effect on your professional life. It is in your best interest to avoid gossips. The management on the other hand should communicate effectively when such rumours arise. Rumors originate as a result of misunderstandings, or because news wasn’t communicated swiftly and clearly. It is to communicate effectively about the events in the organisation and be in constant touch with the loyalists.

The Jewish proverb ‘What you don't see with your eyes, don't witness with your mouth’ reads as the best suggestion to deal with rumours. Use your discretion when you fall in the circle of a ‘Chinese Whisper’ at office. Let the game end at you.

Comments

Resume is a sales pitch to present your skills and talents. Your looks is the pitch for your personality. They need to go hand in hand for a successful good impression. And not just that but much more.
Read more

Work culture is the base on which employees and teams stand. When presented with a choice, managers go for corporate culture and employees for the open work culture. So, what is it that brings such a contrast.
Read more